Sexual Abuse Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Megan Zurasky, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Zurasky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
I am an EMDR therapist and certified sexual assault counselor in the state of PA.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
Photo of Olivia Frye - Mindful Matters Counseling Group, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Matters Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
I am an LPC experienced working with survivors of sexual violence (rape, incest, childhood sexual abuse) grief/loss, other interpersonal traumas, anxiety, depression, gambling issues and relationship issues.
Life can leave you feeling stuck or overwhelmed at times. Sometimes one may feel generally dissatisfied with life and wanting more, if any of these are you...you are not alone. Depression, hopelessness, relationship problems, loss, domestic/sexual violence, sexual abuse, and addiction are just a few of the issues that bring people into counseling. Confronting these realities can be a daunting task. Counseling and the therapeutic relationship can help individuals address these adversities, transcend negative emotions and heal. I've learned that a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation to combating negative emotions such as; sadness, guilt, shame, anxiety, hurt, and hopelessness.
(412) 357-4035 View (412) 357-4035
Photo of Susie J. Balcom, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
I'm a certified EMDR therapist, certified sexual assault counselor, and currently pursuing sex therapy certification.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
(412) 520-3576 View (412) 520-3576
Photo of DeMarquis Clarke, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
DeMarquis Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I am a capable, compassionate, experienced clinician that provides individual, couple/marital, and family therapy for a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, relational conflict, trauma and abuse recovery, parent-child conflict, anger management, and more. My specialties include: couple/marital therapy; sexual abuse and trauma recovery; as well as working with issues of religion/spirituality, race/ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation.
(412) 435-1347 View (412) 435-1347
Photo of Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brian J. Ferraccio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/ assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
I’m here to help you find yours, embrace them, & use them! My practice has a special focus on treating survivors of sexual abuse/ assault & traumas.
*Please Assist Dr. F. in Most Efficiently Managing High Demand by Enrolling for Your Consult Directly @ “Pittsburgh-Therapist.com”* I know there are real reasons that led you here, together we can find real solutions. I will listen to your story & together we will work to resolve your unique challenges, step by step, at your pace. Recent events have been disruptive, unsettling, & traumatic. As a result, you may be facing new/intensified problems. I excel in aiding adults & teens who are exhausted, down, overwhelmed, irritable, anxious, survivors of trauma/abuse, and/or have problems relating to others. I look forward to meeting you.
(878) 216-7126 View (878) 216-7126
Photo of Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bartholomew-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
Sarah is a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy to individuals across the lifespan, specializing in Trauma. Sarah has spent years working with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assaults, sexual abuse, and child abuse and neglect. Sarah is also dedicated to supporting LGBT+ individuals and parents of LGBT+ children in growing their understanding of how to lovingly support their child.
(412) 900-5241 View (412) 900-5241
Photo of Andrea Karlunas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Karlunas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Andrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the field for over twenty years with clients who experienced family trauma including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and domestic violence I am passionate about building healthy skills and healing which prevents clients from a fulfilled and healthy life. I have warm interactive style and gently challenge clients to move out of their comfort zone to heal from what no longer serves them.
My name is Andrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the field for over twenty years with clients who experienced family trauma including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and domestic violence I am passionate about building healthy skills and healing which prevents clients from a fulfilled and healthy life. I have warm interactive style and gently challenge clients to move out of their comfort zone to heal from what no longer serves them.
(267) 365-5744 View (267) 365-5744
Photo of Julia Lindenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Lindenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have specialized training and experience working with first responders and veterans as well as men who have experienced trauma including sexual abuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have specialized in trauma since my graduate training and worked with young adults and adults facing a variety of challenges including childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, abusive adult relationships and "single" traumatic events.
I have specialized training and experience working with first responders and veterans as well as men who have experienced trauma including sexual abuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I have specialized in trauma since my graduate training and worked with young adults and adults facing a variety of challenges including childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, abusive adult relationships and "single" traumatic events.
(484) 564-5226 View (484) 564-5226
Photo of Kristen Revello, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Revello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
Waitlist for new clients
Specifically: childhood/past traumas, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ related traumas, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck? Reliving the past and dreading the future? Struggling to find peace? Life can be uncertain and unjust. Yet we are tasked with creating our own meaning around painful experiences. I want to help you regain your personal power, find peace with your past, and envision a life with joy and warmth.
Specifically: childhood/past traumas, sexual assault, LGBTQ+ related traumas, and grief/loss.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck? Reliving the past and dreading the future? Struggling to find peace? Life can be uncertain and unjust. Yet we are tasked with creating our own meaning around painful experiences. I want to help you regain your personal power, find peace with your past, and envision a life with joy and warmth.
View
Photo of Janeanna Galli - JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling , LPCMH, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
JaneAnna Galli Lighthouse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
For over twenty years I have been working within the field of Individual and Family Intervention. My education in Masters of Arts in Counseling from Biblical Theological Seminary which is now referred to as Missio Seminary has provided me with the ability to help so many. I am certified in child sexual abuse treatment through Widener University and Family Support Line. For the last 15 years I have been a member in good standing with AACC (American Association of Christian Counselors). Biblically based counseling with the intention to glorify God while helping others to navigate through life's challenges has always been my priority.
(484) 334-4170 View (484) 334-4170
Photo of Joseph H Altman, Psychologist
Joseph H Altman
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
These often result in the rapid resolution of painful memories associated with the trauma of PTSD, unresolved grief, sexual abuse, and the guilt/shame of addictions.
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
These often result in the rapid resolution of painful memories associated with the trauma of PTSD, unresolved grief, sexual abuse, and the guilt/shame of addictions.
I provide a positive, supportive, environment where clients have an opportunity to be heard, and to be healed of their emotional pain and fears. My approach is to meet people where they are and to encourage a shift in thinking from negative and fearful, to positive and hopeful. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD associated with childhood trauma, sexual abuse, losses and addictions. The goal is to help neutralize the anxiety, depression, guilt, shame and fears that are the symptoms of the trauma or addiction. The goal is to: "Learn to love, accept and forgive yourself because you are doing the best you can."
(724) 505-4016 View (724) 505-4016
Photo of Julz Metelsky, MA, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julz Metelsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, and my theoretical alignments are focused on feminism. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I enjoy working with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
I'm an LGBTQIA+ therapist, and my theoretical alignments are focused on feminism. I'm passionate about gender fluidity and contributing to a strong future generation by challenging societal norms. I enjoy working with folks concerned with anxiety, childhood trauma/abuse, interpersonal violence (IPV) and sexual assault, intergenerational trauma, and self-esteem.
(412) 923-0964 x117 View (412) 923-0964 x117
Photo of Daniela García Zubieta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniela García Zubieta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in PTSD, sexual trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and generational trauma.
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Over the last decade, I have worked with folks from various backgrounds and have found that most everyone can benefit from a safe, warm space to explore and process inner aspects of themselves. Coming from a stance of curiosity rather than judgment, I guide my clients to finding meaning and truth they already had within themselves. If I seem like a good fit for you, I look forward to witnessing your process and bringing compassion and support to your journey.
I specialize in PTSD, sexual trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal violence, and generational trauma.
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Over the last decade, I have worked with folks from various backgrounds and have found that most everyone can benefit from a safe, warm space to explore and process inner aspects of themselves. Coming from a stance of curiosity rather than judgment, I guide my clients to finding meaning and truth they already had within themselves. If I seem like a good fit for you, I look forward to witnessing your process and bringing compassion and support to your journey.
(412) 293-0489 View (412) 293-0489
Photo of Brittney Dezwick, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittney Dezwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I have experience helping clients examine a wide range of issues including relational conflict, sexual abuse, unhealthy attachment, process addictions, trauma, OCD, mood disorders, grief and anger management.
As a Licensed Therapist I believe there is great value in a curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns in the presence of another person. I value the collaborative therapeutic relationship, using authenticity and humor within the therapy process. Together we will explore habits, beliefs, physical manifestations, limitations and the underlying issues that keep you stuck in patterns that restrict your capacity to enjoy the quality of life you desire. I welcome all genders, sexual orientations, races, nationalities, and have a strong commitment to trauma-informed care.
I have experience helping clients examine a wide range of issues including relational conflict, sexual abuse, unhealthy attachment, process addictions, trauma, OCD, mood disorders, grief and anger management.
As a Licensed Therapist I believe there is great value in a curious and non-judgmental exploration of our feelings, thoughts, actions, and relational patterns in the presence of another person. I value the collaborative therapeutic relationship, using authenticity and humor within the therapy process. Together we will explore habits, beliefs, physical manifestations, limitations and the underlying issues that keep you stuck in patterns that restrict your capacity to enjoy the quality of life you desire. I welcome all genders, sexual orientations, races, nationalities, and have a strong commitment to trauma-informed care.
(412) 314-8181 View (412) 314-8181
Photo of Barbara Kline, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Kline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, anger, divorce, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationships, and identity.
Modern life has allowed us to communicate with others in unprecedented new ways, and yet not enough opportunities to be truly heard and understood. My goal in working with you is to create an environment where you are heard and understood, to facilitate your journey in overcoming difficulties, and to enable you to reach your full potential to have a satisfying life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, trauma, sexual abuse, grief and loss, anger, divorce, life transitions, low self-esteem, relationships, and identity.
Modern life has allowed us to communicate with others in unprecedented new ways, and yet not enough opportunities to be truly heard and understood. My goal in working with you is to create an environment where you are heard and understood, to facilitate your journey in overcoming difficulties, and to enable you to reach your full potential to have a satisfying life.
(412) 888-0420 View (412) 888-0420
Photo of Mandy Kushner, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Kushner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I specialize in past or present trauma in all forms ( sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, veterans of war, natural disasters, unresolved grief).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
I specialize in past or present trauma in all forms ( sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, veterans of war, natural disasters, unresolved grief).
I strive to create a relaxed, supportive and positive environment for my clients during each counseling session, because I understand how difficult and scary it can be for clients to disclose personal information. I show my clients respect, honesty, compassion and I listen without judgement. I make sure my clients feel heard, validated, supported and gain insight. I have 22 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings which include: Outpatient, Home/Community, School-Based, Psychiatric Hospitals and Primary Care Physician Offices.
(412) 999-2244 View (412) 999-2244
Photo of Michelle Zehner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Zehner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I am Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Certified Social Worker (LCCSW) in Maryland and Pennsylvania. I am passionate about raising awareness and educating people on issues like domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Certified Social Worker (LCCSW) in Maryland and Pennsylvania. I am passionate about raising awareness and educating people on issues like domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(412) 684-6728 View (412) 684-6728
Photo of Dawn Covington, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Covington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/ sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
My experience is helping individuals and families overcome emotional, mental and spiritual challenges. I will help you identify unhealthy patterns that get in the way of you having a healthy and enjoyable life. We will learn and use positive coping skills and self-awareness skills to help you have satisfaction, fulfillment, growth and to experience new ways of being. My specialties include family problems, depression, mood and anxiety disorders, problems with self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss issues, trauma/ sexual abuse, work issues, life transition issues, parenting, women's issues and anger management.
(412) 961-8349 View (412) 961-8349
Photo of Kim Weiner, PhD, Psychologist
Kim Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
I worked for many years in college counseling, helping adults of all ages overcome problems arising from anxiety, poor mood, grief, life transitions, gender identity, sexual orientation, assault, and trauma among other concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist at Allegheny Mental Health Associates (AMHA), PC. with over 30 yrs of experience working with adults (18+) who encounter anxiety, depression, or relationship problems. I can help if you feel stressed and find it hard to be the person you want to be. I consider myself an integrative therapist and use a variety of therapeutic skills and techniques to best individualize treatment. My focus is to help you to discover, or recover, your sense of purpose and vitality, to enable you to re-connect with what matters most to you and teach you ways to relate to your life experiences with skill, insight and wisdom.
(412) 899-2510 View (412) 899-2510
Photo of Jessica Morrow, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Morrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a therapist at Elements Counseling & Wellness Spa.I grew up in a small rural town in Western Pa and lived in poverty for most of my life. In addition to her education, Jessica has more life experiences with substance use, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse that provides her with a unique and deep understanding. Jessica uses a person in environment approach that fosters resiliency and empowers clients to make the necessary changes in their life. Jessica is a part of the LGBTQIA community, as well as neurodivergent herself so she understands how mental health can be a huge barrier to success in individuals lives.
I am a therapist at Elements Counseling & Wellness Spa.I grew up in a small rural town in Western Pa and lived in poverty for most of my life. In addition to her education, Jessica has more life experiences with substance use, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse that provides her with a unique and deep understanding. Jessica uses a person in environment approach that fosters resiliency and empowers clients to make the necessary changes in their life. Jessica is a part of the LGBTQIA community, as well as neurodivergent herself so she understands how mental health can be a huge barrier to success in individuals lives.
(724) 885-2712 View (724) 885-2712
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Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.